Zero Industries Japan CEO apologizes for unauthorized laser experiments

Kai Sugihara, CEO of space venture Zero Industries Japan, has issued an apology following unauthorized laser irradiation experiments conducted on a riverbed in May 2026. The company, which aims to develop technology for transmitting power from space to satellites via lasers, admitted to failing to obtain necessary permits from river administrators and neglecting sufficient safety protocols.

The controversy arose after footage of the experiments gained attention on X, leading to public criticism regarding safety. Sugihara explained that the initial experiments involved modifying a laser from an engineer’s cutting machine. To increase power, he and the company’s CTO traveled to Shenzhen, China, to procure laser diodes.

While two individuals were assigned to monitor the surroundings during the experiment, Sugihara acknowledged that safety management was extremely inadequate. The company is currently working with the Graduate School of Light Science and Engineering (GPI) to develop safety measures and prevent recurrence.